Spring Property Guide 2015 by Star Weekly

SPRING

PROPERTY GUIDE

Meet your local real estate experts, learn about buying and selling property, finance, investment properties, growth regions, renovating, decorating and a whole lot more.

SPRING

PROPERTY GUIDE

CON

TENTS 8

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

ADVERTISING REAL ESTATE SALES DIRECTOR \ JACK GILLESPIE jgillespie@starweekly.com.au SALES DIRECTOR \ BEN SUTTON bsutton@starweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF \ STEPHEN LINNELL slinnell@starweekly.com.au

10 14

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/General Manager, Colin Moss All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Colin Moss. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Rise and rise of the west

Top tips

Property styling

The outside

Invest in the west

Plan well

Davis Creek development

Harbour life

Property guide

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay

Wyndham

Brimbank

Melton And Moorabool

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges

Northern

Why the west is about to explode First impressions are lasting Styling can add thousands to the value of your home The importance of landscaping Home investment opportunities abound A good renovation can boost your sale price Building a new Habitat

Wyndham’s new marina The rise of Thornhill Park White hot in the inner west Spring selling bonanza Sunshine and St Albans on the move Affordability still the key Lifestyle a drawcard

Demand to stay strong

Adriatic’s exclusive furniture and accessories range is available for both short and long-term hire. Whether you need furniture for real estate displays, display homes, special events, functions or photographic shoots, our experienced consultants will utilise our range of superb furniture pieces to create the precise look that you’re after.

Highpoint Homemaker Centre 179 Rosamond Road, Maribyrnong VIC 3032

Watergardens Town Centre 399 Melton Hwy, Taylors Lakes VIC 3038

(03) 9317 7037

(03) 9449 0233

Essendon Homemaker Hub DFO 150 Bulla Road, Strathmore VIC 3041

Thomastown Homemaker Centre 308 Settlement Road, Thomastown VIC 3074

(03) 9351 0669

(03) 9465 9611

2 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

Hire, Sales and Rental.

Exclusive Yes, Expensive No.

adriatic.com.au

Spring into the property market Welcome to your Star Weekly Spring Property Guide. We know that selling or buying a home can be a stressful time for everyone, so we have put together this guide to assist you to make the right decision. Whether it is buying a home or selling, this guide has something for everyone. Star Weekly has assembled its team of reporters and real estate experts to help arm you with the latest information on suburbs and property “hot spots” throughout the western and northern suburbs. Coupled with Australia’s leading online real estate website Domain. com.au, you can access the best and most affordable properties in the region, all at the touch of a fingertip. To get you started, Australian property market expert Dr Andrew Wilson explains how the property market is expected to perform in both the “inner” and “outer” west and north of Melbourne (pages 4 and 5). On page 7, we offer up five ways to connect with buyers to get your home sold.

And on page 10, we talk about the importance of landscaping and reveal five top tips to make your property stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s buying or selling – or even investing – your Spring Property Guide is packed with useful and relevant information. On Page 14, the ME Bank’s Head of Home Loans Patrick Nolan explains how a well-planned renovation can see your home’s market value soar. And to make it easy for you, we have created sections featuring the latest information, including key statistics, from our key municipalities throughout the western and northern suburbs. Star Weekly is delighted to work with our real estate professionals and produce this special Spring Property Guide for our readers. Please enjoy. Jack Gillespie Real Estate Sales Director

Caroline Springs-based property stylist Vikki Brereton shares her secrets on how you can add thousands of dollars of value to your home on pages 8 and 9.

Style and quality at the right price! SHOWER SCREENS

DAY AND NIGHT DOUBLE BLINDS

SECURITY DOORS

SALE GET UP TO

WARDROBES

BALUSTRADES

FREE QUOTE

RING OUR HOTLINE

SPLASHBACKS

9365 1500

15 Translink Drive, Keilor Park

50%off ON SELECTED PRODUCTS

www.renma.com.au STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 3

Melbourne’s west and north set to keep rising through a strong spring Dr Andrew Wilson

Senior Economist for the Domain Group Melbourne’s housing market has re-activated over the past three years driven by the sharp falls in interest rates that commenced in November 2011. Melbourne’s median house price increased by 25.5 percent between December 2011 and June 2015 as official interest rates plunged from 4.75 percent to just 2 percent – the lowest rate ever set by the Reserve Bank. Rate cuts in February and May 2015 energised the Melbourne market with buyer activity rising to the highest levels since the strong market conditions of autumn 2010. With mortgage rates the lowest since the mid-1960’s, home loan affordability has continued to improve with confidence clearly on the rise. Although low interest rates have generally re-activated the Melbourne housing market, buyer activity in western and northern suburbs remained subdued through most of 2014. This reflected a deteriorating Melbourne economy with significant job shedding - particularly in the local manufacturing industry. Unemployment increased to decade-high levels which impacted workforce suburbs to the west and north with concerns over job security stifling home buyer confidence. Melbourne’s autumn market resurgence this year has, however, featured a notable increase in buyer activity in the northern and

western suburbs that has been driven not only by lower interest rates but also by a significant revival in the Melbourne economy. The local home building boom has created thousands of jobs with unemployment rates plunging and consumer confidence rising. Higher numbers of investors, changeover buyers and first home buyers are driving demand for homes in high-value, affordable middle and outer suburban areas to the west and north of the city.

volumes have translated into significant winter home price growth in the west and north. The median price of a home sold at auction in the western suburban region of Melbourne increased by 14.2 per cent over the past year – up from $576,000 over July 2014 to $658,000 over July this year. Similarly, the median price of homes sold in the northern suburbs increased by 12.9 percent over the same period– up from $497,500 to $561,500.

Winter auction activity reflects the strengthening of these markets with clearance rates for the western suburbs rising to 71.2 per cent over July - well ahead of the 62.2 per cent recorded over July 2014. Similarly for Melbourne’s northern suburbs, auction clearance rates increased to 73.4 per cent compared to the 69.2 per cent rate of July last year.

Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs have clearly revived over autumn and into winter driven by low interest rates and an improving local economy. With solid market momentum and rising confidence clearly evident, the prospects are positive that these regions are set for their best spring selling season performance for years.

Auction volumes are also a solid leading indicator of market confidence with listing numbers surging over winter as sellers took advantage of improved market conditions. A total of 902 homes were listed to go under the hammer in the western suburbs over June and July compared to 774 over the same period last year. The northern suburbs reported 506 auction listings over June and July this year compared to 414 last year over the same two months.

Prices growth is also set to continue, driven by rising investor numbers attracted by relatively high yields and emerging capital growth, growing first home buyers particularly in new home and land packages in outer areas and changeover buyers taking advantage of value opportunities in the trade up market.

No surprise that rising clearance rates from increased auction

be inspired

Continued growth in the rapidly gentrifying inner western suburbs will also be a key factor of a sustained spring resurgence in what must be Melbourne’s best value suburban areas.

Whatever your space, taste and lifestyle, talk to the Specialists, we’re 7PCE PALMER & HELENA sure to inspire you! HIGHPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE 98-108 Hampstead Rd, Maribyrnong.

Ph 9317 8884

Inspirational outdoor living. Images for illustration purposes only, colours may vary. See instore for details.

4 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

tofs.com.au

‘Australian Family Business’ ‘Australian Product’

SPRING SAVINGS

OFF

ROLLE SHUTTERS ROLLER SHUTTE

FLYSCREENS MEASURED, MADE, AND FITTED ON THE SPOT!

FROM $

4900

*Conditions apply. Offer ends November 27, 2015. SECURITY DOORS MADE TO MEASURE AT FACTORY DIRECT PRICES

Phone: 9401 3066

Email: sales@onsiteflyscreens.com.au

www.onsiteflyscreens.com.au

1195385-LB33-15 10028106-01

16 Mary Court, Epping 3076

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 5

FREE

LANDS LANDSCAPING ON E EVERY LOT LO ^

LAND FROM

$141,000*

Where your new home Welcome to Habitat on Davis Creek, a place soon to be blossoming with delightful wide open spaces. There’s plenty of room to play, explore and exercise amongst the beautifully landscaped surroundings. Whatever the season, consider it your family retreat from the outside world. With easy access to the city, plus dozens of exciting new facilities springing up right in your backyard, your family will love calling Habitat home.

springs to life

• Over 14 hectares of wide open space set amongst beautifully landscaped surroundings including a natural waterway • Close to everything with schools, three proposed town centres and the Tarneit train station only a short distance away • New land has just been released and is selling fast, from $141,000*

Habitat’s first residents are about to start building their new homes. To be part of this growing community, visit the Sales and Information Centre, corner Sayers and Davis Roads, Tarneit or call 1300 DAVIS CREEK (328 472). *Price correct as at 14 August, 2015. Subject to availability. ^Landscaping offer is limited and will not commence until construction of dwelling is complete. Satterley Property Group and contractors reserve the right to amend concepts without notice. Landscaping available on selected lots, when specified in Contract of Sale

habitatdaviscreek.com.au

Top tips to sell your home By Vikki Brereton It’s undeniable that a bad first impression is almost impossible to undo. Take the time before you list your home to do everything you can to make the best impression possible. Taking the time at the beginning will save time in the end as you will avoid having your property sit on the market for a lengthy period because buyers do not find it attractive.

Create space: Scale furniture to fit your spaces so buyers can easily walk around the rooms. If you have a small master bedroom use a double bed instead of queen-size. Create an impression of space by using simple techniques, from floorto-ceiling curtains and see-through furnishing such as ghost chairs, glass tables and strategically placed mirrors.

Street appeal, a feeling of space and modernising a home will help buyers develop an emotional connection with your home.

Look up: Buyers will inspect all angles and this includes what is above you. Make sure you clean all ceiling vents, exhaust fans, dust for cobwebs and check that all lights are working (inside and out).

If a buyer can see themselves living in your property, it feels inviting and they get tingly at the idea of owning it, and it represents the lifestyle they want. Here are my top five tips to connect with buyers and get your home sold.

Get organised: It is important to stay organised when selling as you never know when your agent will have a prospective buyer wishing to inspect your home.

Create a great first impression: You don’t get a second chance to create a first impression. Wash paths and driveways, clean gutters, keep the lawn tidy and stay on top of the weeds. Create purpose: Empty rooms look smaller, feel cold and are uninviting. Buyers find it difficult to imagine how they would place furniture in a room, or even if their furniture will fit.

To find more information about the benefits of Property Styling visit www.decorinteriorstyle.com.au

SATELITE CITY FURNITURE & BEDDING We don’t discount furniture quality.. We do discount quality furniture

LOOK OUT FOR OUR CATALOGUE ORDERS CAN BE PLACED ON ALL ITEMS FREE DELIVERY TO MOST AREAS^ ^conditionsapply ^conditionsapp ply

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FURNITURE THAT SUITS YOU AND YOUR DÉCOR WILL BE EASY TO DO ONCE YOU HAVE SEEN OUR LARGE RANGE OF FURNITURE & BEDDING. GOOD DESIGN & QUALITY IN FURNITURE BRINGS FUNCTION AND BEAUTY TO A LIVING OR WORKING SPACE, WHETHER IT’S A SMALL APARTMENT OR LARGE MANOR HOUSE.

WWW.SATELITECITYFURNITURE.COM.AU

35 358 5 High St Melton | Ph 9743 6205

EMAIL : INFO@SATELITECITYFURNITURE.COM.AU *Fees, terms and conditions apply. See in-store for details STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 7

Property styling can add thousands to the sale price of your home Properties that have not been styled for sale take longer to sell and do not achieve the best sale prices for property owners. Caroline Springs property styling expert Vicki Brereton said presentation in a competitive real estate market is serious business and can be the difference between a disappointing sales price and a spectacular result. “Property styling can help avoid a lengthy, expensive and disappointing sale period on the market,” Ms Brereton said. “Selling a home that has not been styled only makes your competition look better. “Home owners can do it themselves but usually need an outside party to be critical of their own personal style and décor, so that the property appeals to a wide range of buyers. “Recently we worked with a client that lived in a near empty house. “Once we furnished and styled it, the house sold at auction for $145,000 above reserve, setting a new sales record in the area. “Street appeal, feeling of space and modernising a home will help buyers develop an emotional connection. “The home should reflect the market and not the personality of the person selling their home. “Statistically it takes 90 seconds from the time the buyer walks in the door to know if it’s a home that will give them the lifestyle they’re looking for.”

PROMENADE at waterhaven

TA STA GE 2 GE : O 3: NLY NO 2 W REM SE AIN LLIN G

• Brand new low maintenance townhouses • Buy off the plan & save on stamp duty • Closest freeway access in Point Cook • Close to schools & town centre • Purchase direct from the developer • Perfect for first home owners

Point Cook’s best townhouses.. ANGELO D’ADDAZIO 0438 223 385 | OPEN SAT 11-4PM & SUN 11-1PM

CAMPASPE WAY, POINT COOK | WATERHAVEN.NET.AU/PROMENADE *Including First Home Owners Grant

8 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

ANOTHER QUALITY PROJECT BY

Ms Brereton said there a few simple rules to follow to add value to your home when selling: Create Street Appeal: You You don’t get a second chance to create a first impression. Wash paths and driveways, clean gutters, keep the lawn tidy and stay on top of the weeds. De-clutter and Clean: Remove clutter by going through all your closets and cupboards. This creates more space and also helps when it is time to move, as there will be less packing to do. Depersonalise: Buyers need to be able to see themselves in your home, not see all your personal items like photos, religious artifacts, certificates, collections and collectibles. Create Light: Bright Bright colours don’t appeal to the majority of buyers. Neutral colours work best as it makes your home appear larger and has less chance of offending someone. Luxury: In In the bedrooms create a relaxing and luxurious setting by using soft colours. Use white doona covers and dress them up with a cosy throw rug. Dress the bed with large pillows, cushions and large bedside lamps. Ms Brereton said this attention to detail stays in the mind of a buyer for all the right reasons. Real estate agents believe home sellers will earn a higher price if their property is styled, while about half think you will receive multiple offers.

To find more information about the benefits of Property Styling visit www.decorinteriorstyle.com.au

Mature Aged Living at its Best

The Heart of the Community • Indoor Heated Pool & Spa • Fully-equipped Gymnasium • 8 Rink World Champion Undercover Bowling Green • Bocce, Croquet, 9-hole Mini Golf • Billiards/Snooker Room • Dance Floor and Stage • Luxurious Cinema • Library with Internet/Computers • Art & Craft Centre • Workshop • Commercial Kitchen with Dining Area/Bar • Golf Simulator Centre • Loads of free activities With all of this at your doorstep you are free to do as much or as little as you please.

10029590-01

The Lifestyle and Recreational Hub offers all the facilities you would expect from a 5 Star resort including:

1193003-LN35-15

Located within close distance to the hustle and bustle of the CBD and airport, yet far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet, Palm Lake Resort at Truganina has it all. Architect designed homes, 5 Star facilities, new friends and a world of possibilities to discover.

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 9

The outside is just as important as the inside

When selling your home, you essentially have to sell it to a potential buyer three times. Once from advertising, once when they drive by, and if that brings them in, once they come inside. Most likely, if they don’t like what they see on the outside, they’ll keep driving. Your home’s street appeal sets the tone for what potential buyers expect of the home they’re walking into, explains Vicki Brereton, owner and property styling expert at Décor Interior Style. “Since most people’s buying decisions are based on an emotional response, a home’s street appeal starts the love affair, or terminates it immediately,” she says. Having a well presented front and back garden does not necessarily mean you have to completely re-landscape your home. Like the interior, it is being able to present the spaces clean, tidy and well maintained. A simple strategy to assess how the outside of your home presents is to either drive by or walk around your home and try to look at it through the eyes of a home buyer. Anything that would turn you off as a home buyer should be repaired or improved before you put your home on the market. You wouldn’t head out to a formal even without looking in a mirror and you shouldn’t try to sell your home without giving it the once over. Here are five simple things to do to help get the outside of your home looking amazing for sale. Make an entrance: The front door of any house is the focal point. It’s the main entry and needs to be warm and inviting. Try putting a fresh coat of paint on your door, white, red and black doors always look great. Replace any old door handles and locks to inspire confidence in security-minded buyers. Make sure your house number can easily be seen the from the street.

Wake up your driveway: Your driveway covers a large percentage of your front garden so make sure it’s in good condition as it is one of the first things prospective buyers will notice. It’s a good idea to freshen it up by pressure washing and resealing it. While you are cleaning up the driveway, don’t forget the paths as these are also important. Great Lighting: A great way to improve your garden and home’s street appeal is with lighting. Night lighting can create a modern, chic look for your garden. Swap out-dated exterior lighting for something bold and inviting. Highlight landscape elements, paths and driveway with lights. Get decked out: If you currently have decks and veranda’s give them a good clean with a high pressure hose. Re-stain any timber work or reapply colour to faded concrete areas. Dress the spaces with nice furniture and add potted flowers and plants to add instant wow and appeal. You don’t have to completely overhaul the exterior of your home. Just pick and choose what you think will have the most impact and go from there. No matter what state the housing market is in, dealing with street appeal is important since even in good times, you could be leaving money on the table by not doing needed work. To find more information about the benefits of Property Styling visit www.decorinteriorstyle.com.au

Benton

San Tropez

Brookhaven

Florence

Queen Bed Only $899

Queen Bed Only $1299

Queen Bed Only $1699

Queen Bed Only $1799

1195234-PB35-15 10029910-01

SPRING INTO SPRING AT BEDSHED

Show off your garden: Make sure a potential buyer views a well-cared for, low maintenance property. Clean out all the weeds, do any necessary trimming and add fresh mulch - dark coloured mulch is best as it will enhance the colour of your plants. Add a few pots of colourful flowers near the front door and a new doormat to complete the look.

HIGHPOINT 10 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

Felix

Single Bed Only $599

Studio Natural

Single Bed Only $499

Piccadilly

White or Chocolate Single Double Bunk Only $799

1195860-PB35-15 10029910-03

Single Bed Only $549

Jessica

Highpoint Homemaker City Shop 14, 179 Rosamond Road Maribyrnong Email: sales.highpoint@bedshed.com.au Phone 9317 3122

COME IN STORE FOR ALL SPRING

DEALS STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 11

Invest in the west Esther Lauaki High growth, low median prices and good borrowing conditions are the drawcards attracting savvy investors to the west, according to real estate agents. Sweeney Estate Agents Melton director Garry Gale said when it comes to investment, the western suburbs offer lower end prices with some of the highest rental yields in the state. “Many of the properties purchased around the $250,000 mark see weekly rental incomes between $280 to $300 per week, which in some circumstances has these properties positively geared,” he said. A combination of the region’s advantageous location - close to the CBD, Port of Melbourne, major centres and both airports - and strong public transport connections which run through or adjacent to the area, make it a hotbed for investment. Latest figures out of Real Estate Institute of Victoria name St Albans and Footscray among the top growth suburbs across the state. Multifaceted infrastructure projects like the Footscray renewal program, the $200 million Sunshine Hospital redevelopment and the establishment of the Werribee Employment Precinct also reinforce the west’s reputation as Victoria’s fastest growing area. Domain.com.au shows the region’s vacancy rates are notably low - the lowest being 2.2 per cent in Melton.

Bring Style to Your Home

Complete your bar with bar stools, decanters, bar tools, decor and bars....

Opening Hours: Tue - Sat: 10.00am - 5:00pm, Sun: 11:00am - 4:00pm, MON: CLOSED

Home Maker Centre, Shop 15/428 Old Geelong Road, Hoppers Crossing (Near Chemist Warehouse) 03 8306 3606

w w w.homebars.com.au 12 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

Mr Gale said the property market’s Midas run has been driven by favourable borrowing conditions. Recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank to about two per cent means investors can make a low risk investment with low upfront capital, he said. “Purchasers are taking advantage of these history making lows in finance lending to either purchase their dream home or secure an investment property for a better retirement. “Location is not always the defining factor when purchasing an investment property, consider the return against its purchase, as tenants are willing to locate themselves anywhere for the right place. Everyone’s needs are different. For families, there are a number of strong performers in the west that offer great schooling options, public transport and shopping.”

A well planned Patrick Nolan

ME Bank Head of Home Loans ME Bank Head of Home Loans, Patrick Nolan explains how a well-planned renovation can see your home’s market value soar. If the popularity of television shows like The Block is anything to go by, Australians don’t just love our homes – we also love to decorate, renovate and generally improve them. If you’re bitten by the renovation bug, rest assured, a well-planned renovation can give your lifestyle - and your home’s value, a welcome boost. The key is to focus on improvements with broad market appeal, and give careful thought to how you will fund the project, something that is often glossed over in renovation shows. To avoid overcapitalising - where you spend more on the renovation than the value it adds to your home – consider the market in your area to be sure your improvements will fit in. Adding a fourth bedroom for instance, can make sense if you live in a family-friendly suburb, less so if you’re in an area popular with young singles.

GREAT DEALS ARE UNDERFOOT AT CAROLINE SPRINGS FLOORWORLD Let the friendly staff at Caroline Springs Floorworld make your in store experience a good one by showing you the latest in floor coverings and designs to give your renovation, home or office the functionality and comfort you would like to live on. Caroline Springs Floorworld supplies and installs floor coverings ranging from carpet, timber, laminate, bamboo, vinyl, rugs, tiles, blinds and even outdoor eco-decking. Their impressive showroom is the ideal place to check out what’s available from the biggest brands in floor coverings in Australia. “We provide the ultimate range of floor coverings for domestic and commercial buildings. No job is too big or small. The floor of your home is the foundation of your interior style and our sales team has more than 40 years’ combined experience in the flooring industry, as do our installers who can eliminate potential issues before they arise” owner Jay Nicdao says. The business opened 2 years ago and Jay says they have been providing affordable and competitive flooring solutions for new and existing properties. The family-owned and operated business consists of a team of professionals from the local area and offer a take-home lay-by service with no interest to pay. 14 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

renovation can boost your sale price Next, put your hard earned cash to work where it will deliver the greatest benefit. High quality kitchen and bathroom renovations almost always add value to a property. The same can’t be said of outdoor spas or swimming pools, which can be high maintenance and don’t always deliver a fiscal return. It’s also worth thinking about eco-friendly renovations. Home buyers can’t get enough of ‘green’ features like rainwater tanks, energy efficient appliances and drip-feed irrigation systems. Along with adding value to your home, you’ll also save on utility bills. Planning a renovation is exciting, but before thumbing through colour charts or carpet samples, it’s critical to think about how you will pay for it all. Your home loan is a valuable tool here offering a low cost source of funds, and there are a number of options to weigh up.

to complete the project in your own time. For structural renovations like adding a new extension or an extra floor, a construction home loan can be the answer. Lenders will ask to take a look at your building plans, so you’ll have the benefit of an extra set of eyes checking the quality of your project. Funding is then provided as a series of drawdowns as various stages of the project are completed. The beauty of this approach is that you only pay interest on the funds drawn down. To discover more options on funding your renovation project, call ME Bank on 13 15 63 or visit mebank.com.au.

If you’re ahead with your loan, a redraw facility provides easy access to those extra payments. If you need a little more cash, a home loan top-up could be the solution. This simply means bringing your loan back to its original level – or borrowing a bit extra, and it’s a far simpler process than refinancing to a new loan. A top-up works best for non-structural improvements like painting, adding new floor coverings, or kitchen and bathroom makeovers. The funds are generally paid directly to you, providing the flexibility

TALLOWWOOD

BRUSHBOX

MUSHROOM OAK

90 * sq mt

CAROLINE SPRINGS

Cold water is all you need to remove tough stains like red wine, tomato sauce and pet mishaps. You'll love your new Australian made Redbook green carpet without the "how will I clean this?" moments. View a sample at Caroline from Springs Floorworld.

SILVERED OAK

LIMED OAK

Panamax Drive (behind Officeworks)

Western Highway

8390 0414

*All prices flooring only. Installation and underlay extra. Offers available until 31 October 2015 or until stocks last.

99*

STE

Offi

cew

CAR

OLIN

ste

ork

PRIN

sq mt

BLACKJACK

Chisholm

VINTAGE WOOD

Ba llar at R llar d at Rd

x Dr

AUSTRALIAN OAK

ama

WENGE

Pan

Gerflor’s Pro Lock is a practical, hard wearing, modular floating floor suitable for climate controlled residential to medium commercial spaces, including wet areas.

KIWI OAK

Bun

nin

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 15

Building a new Habitat Habitat on Davis Creek - a breathtaking 65-hectare residential development on the corner of Sayers and Davis Roads, Tarneit - is starting to take shape. Construction commenced in March and the first three stages are well underway. The development is one of many residential communities that form the Riversdale Precinct Structural Plan, which was approved by the Metropolitan Planning Authority in June last year. General Manager of Satterley Property Group Victoria, Mr Jack Hoffmann, said Habitat on Davis Creek offers a place for families to thrive, where residential lots have been designed around 14 hectares of dedicated open space. “With so many lots facing Davis Creek, our objective has been to design a community that capitalizes on the area’s natural surrounds,” he said. House and land packages start from less than $350,000 and reach upwards of $550,000, which means that buying at Habitat on Davis Creek is attainable, especially for young couples and families and there are plenty of options for families looking to upgrade.” Habitat on Davis Creek is at the forefront of the Riverdale Precinct Structure Plan, which will include the proposed Riverdale town centre, as well as the Davis Road North and Davis Road South town centres. Tarneit will continue to be supported with new amenities including new schools and the brand new train station on the corner of Derrimut and Leakes roads, which is now open. “With Tarneit’s population expected to grow by more than 25,000 residents by 2031, there is a strong need for quality residential communities in the area.” Construction on the 14 home-display village will begin in the second half of 2015 and includes houses by Simonds, Metricon (Home First), Home Buyers Centre, Eight Homes, Long and Island Homes. If customers buy now, they will have a choice of five landscaping packages. Contact the sales team on 1300 DAVIS CREEK (328 478) or visit Satterley.com. au/tarneit.

Check out the best package deals ever!

EASY LIVING PACKAGE

ELITE PACKAGE

COMPLETE PACKAGE

Package Includes: 10 x Blockout Roller Blinds Range 1 Plain Fabrics 100% Blockout

Package Includes: 10 x Blockout Roller Blinds Range 3 Pattern Fabrics 100% Blockout

For ONLY $1,480 Installed!

For ONLY $1,780 Installed!

Package Includes: 10 x Blockout Roller Blinds 10 x Sunscreen Roller Blinds Range 1 Plain Fabrics 100% Blockout Range 1 Sunscreen 5% Openness

*applies to single brackets only*

TOTAL ELITE PACKAGE

For ONLY $2,980 Installed!

*applies to single brackets only*

Package Includes: 10 x Blockout Roller Blinds 10 x Sunscreen Roller Blinds Range 3 Pattern Fabrics 100% Blockout Range 1 Sunscreen 5% Openness

For ONLY $3,380 Installed! *applies to single brackets only*

Just count how many windows you have and choose your Best Package Ever* (Max size 2600 width x 2200 drop) Cu stom M

ade Ind Outdooor and or B up to linds

Plantation Shutters

Roman Blinds

The Blinds Specialist

Panel Glide

Vertical Blinds

www.3ablinds.com.au Email: sales@3ablinds.com.au Factory Showroom 2/399-401 Old Geelong Rd, Hoppers Crossing. (Map Ref: 203 E11)

Roller Shutters

30% OFF

9369 6440

Find us on

SAVE YOUR TIME AND MONEY! ORDER NOW! (Packages available for Metro Melbourne Only- Terms and Conditions Apply) 16 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

Marina set to open The Lighthouse Apartments, the second and final apartment development, has been designed by award-winning architects SJB and will feature 137 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Once all residential development is complete, Wyndham Harbour will feature about 350 houses and 265 apartments. Recently, international marine industry expert Karen Wyatt was appointed to run the harbour’s Marina. Ms Wyatt most recently managed Marsden Cove Marina, a state-of-the-art boating and residential development at the mouth of Whangarei harbour in New Zealand. Ms Wyatt says she aims to evolve Wyndham Harbour into a thriving boating and tourism destination. “I seized the opportunity to join the Wyndham Harbour team and become part of an offering that will truly enhance recreational opportunities for the boating and broader community in Melbourne’s west,” she said. “This is just the beginning of the marina establishing itself as a significant boating destination for locals and visitors.”

an Re d fer ea a rn fr $5 ien ,0 d 00 *

Wyndham Harbour, the $440 million marina development, is a step closer to opening. The estate, located just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, is already a thriving community, with residents now occupying a range of premium waterfront homes, apartments and terrace homes. And this summer, the first stage of the Marina will be operational, emerging as a world-class boating and lifestyle destination. On completion of the first stage of the Marina, residents and the public will have unique access to Port Phillip Bay from previously private land. There will be extensive boating facilities including maintenance and servicing facilities and a refuelling dock. Two new public beaches will also be opened. Once all stages are complete, the Marina will feature up to 1000 wet berths and dry boat storage for up to 390 boats – making it the largest marina in Victoria and second largest in Australia. It will also be the new home of the Werribee South Coast Guard. Wyndham Harbour covers 25 hectares of prime land in Werribee south. The first apartment development was completed last year and Marina Quays is now 98 per cent sold.

Artist Impression

Wyndham Harbour is fast becoming a thriving community with a variety of living options to choose from and a new Marina opening this summer. We are celebrating with our Refer a Friend Campaign. If you’re a past purchaser and your friend or family member purchases an apartment or land, you will receive $5000*. For further information please contact Sudha Pon on 0414 061 144 or visit our Sales Office at 50 Quay Boulevard, Wyndham Harbour, Victoria 3030 (Corner of Duncans Rd and Beach Rd, Werribee South) wyndhamharbour.com.au

+ Price

Lighthouse Apartments from $355,000 +

correct as of 11.08.15 * Terms and Conditions Apply

Bayside living

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 17

The rise of Thornhill Park Affordability meets quality within the brand new master planned community at Thornhill Park close to the Caroline Springs and Rockbank growth corridor. Thornhill Park, positioned 30 minutes west of Melbourne’s CBD, will provide connectivity to the city’s best entertainment and lifestyle choices featuring sporting fields, a future town centre, on-site train station, playgrounds, a dynamic network of linear parklands, urban promenades, walking and cycling tracks and extensive wetlands. Welsh Developments owner and developer, former Essondon footballer Andrew Welsh, said Thornhill Park will offer all the lifestyle choices and amenities to meet buyer’s needs.

For all your

“We believe the site has something for everyone, from first home buyers, move up buyers, empty nesters and retirees wanting smaller lower maintenance homes,” he said. “Investors will also see the benefits of living close to existing amenity and the opportunity for capital growth when more and improved facilities come into the area.”

requirements

The estate has a great mix of lot sizes and medium density product on offer with a range of housing solutions from smaller town houses through to large double storey family homes on larger blocks.

requirements Blocks range from 200m2 smart lots up to 800m2 larger family lots. They will be available

soon for sale along with average lot sizes of approximately 500m2.

and employment opportunities throughout the greater western region.

“More than 1300 blocks, expansive, high quality open space and extensive integrated wetlands will help to set the project apart from others in the corridor,” Mr Welsh said.

“The future population growth in the Melton corridor indicates an increase in all household types, which supports the development of a broad product mix at the Rockbank project.

“In addition to this, the child minding centre and primary school will form key selling features of the project, as well as proximity to our very own on-site future railway station, which will be of great benefit to residents of Thornhill Park.” Convenient access to the Western Freeway, Western Ring Road and ultimately, the outer Metropolitan Ring Road means residents will be well connected with the CBD, Melbourne Airport

“My father and I have lived in the west for many years and know how important it is to bring great community developments to Melbourne’s western growth corridor. That commitment is the very foundation of Welsh Developments and something we’re striving to build upon every day,” Mr Welsh said. www.thornhillpark.com.au

For all your pool and landscaping requirements

Pave world has built a solid reputation for having the largest range of products Pave world built a solid reputation the largest range products available tohas the Victorian market,for forhaving the swimming poolofand landscaping available to the Victorian market, for the swimming pool and landscaping

industry. With four display centres across Melbourne, you are sure to find industry. With four display centres across Melbourne, you are sure to find

pavers, pool copers and retaining walls in a range of products including: pavers, pool copers and retaining walls in a range of products including:

o oSandstone Sandstone

o Clay bricks pavers o Clay bricks and and pavers

o oTravertine Travertine

o Hebel blocks panels o Hebel blocks and and panels

Granite o oGranite

o Concrete sleepers and blocks o Concrete sleepers and blocks

Bluestone o oBluestone

o Synthetic Grass o Synthetic Grass

o Concrete pavers

o Sealers and accessories

www.paveworld.com.au www.paveworld.com.au

Campbellfield - 9359 6028 1596 Sydney Road Sydney Road Campbellfield Vic 3061 297 Diamond Creek Road Greensborough Vic 3088 Taylors1596 Lakes - 9390 8100 35A- (03) Melton Mordialloc - (03) 9580 1080 Taylors Lakes 9390 8100Hwy Mordialloc - (03) 9580 1080 Taylors Lakes - (03) 9390 8100 Campbellfield - (03) 9359 6028 Greensborough - (03) 9434 6744 Campbellfield - (03) 9359 6028 Greensborough - (03) 9434 6744 1596 Sydney Road Campbellfield Vic 3061 297 Diamond Creek Road Greensborough Vic 3088 80 Governor Road Mordialloc Vic 3195

35A Melton Hwy Taylors Lakes Vic 3038

80 Governor Road Mordialloc Vic 3195

18 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

35A Melton Hwy Taylors Lakes Vic 3038

Maribyrnong &Hobsons Bay

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 19

MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY 5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE

7.1%

Inner-west’s ‘white hot’ market

5.8%

4.5%

5% 4%

4.5% 3.6%

Benjamin Millar

The inner-west property market is primed for a bumper spring, according to the area’s real estate agents. The traditionally soft winter period has seen a flurry of sales, continuing a sustained trend of buyers quickly snapping up properties in the increasingly popular Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay region. Agents are fielding a number of enquiries from buyers looking to get a foot into the area, but the bulk of activity is among sellers and buyers already living in the area but looking for property that is a better fit. Despite being a stone’s throw from the city, the area is still considered relatively affordable for first-home buyers. But a number of prestige properties are also commanding strong results and multi-million dollar sales. One real estate agent said the “white-hot” winter market has resulted from a number of factors including record low interest rates. Median Melbourne house prices soared 10 per cent to $688,000 in the 12 months to March. Median unit prices jumped 5.2 per cent in the same period to $519,500. He said there has been a lot of activity in the western

suburbs apartment market on the back of a number of new developments. “We have folk who want maintenance-free living selling out of their old weatherboards,” he said. These properties are then snapped up by buyers looking for a family home as well as investors who go on to enjoy strong rental returns. Hotspots are appearing right across the area, including Footscray, beachside Altona and central Werribee. Williams Real Estate director Michael Harvey said the firsthome buyer market is extremely strong, helping push auction clearance rates up to 85 per cent.

1% Altona

Suburb watch

“There are a number of local people looking at upgrading, but we do get people coming from the other side of town as well,” Mr Harvey said. He said suburbs such as Spotswood, Newport and Williamstown are all on the rise, with great access to the city and coast alike.

WILLIAMSTOWN

“It’s a lovely area, with lots of passive recreation, gardens and cafes,” he said. “The problem we face is actually getting enough stock in these sought-after areas to accommodate the demand.”

Suburb

Median Price

YoY Change

Altona

$640,000

2.8%

$608,000

8.9%

FootscraySe Maribyrnong

Williamstown Yarraville

See

WILLIAMSTOWN

33 units sold last year

0% chance of bad fish and chips 0% chance of bad fish and chips

1 strip of waterfront houses 1 strip of waterfront houses

rop$745,000 ert y li $970,000 stin g $750,000

WILLIAMSTOWN

33 units sold last year

Footscray Maribyrnong Williamstown Yarraville

pro

rty

7.5% 5.6%

s19.5%

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD 6 miles from the CBD

The local guide to living and buying in Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay. There are thousands of reasons to live in Williamstown, so before you buy, take a good look around Review Property. You’ll discover a property site that combines the latest property listings with all the lifestyle information you need to know about the suburb you’re looking to buy in. Local real estate news, auction results are combined with restaurant reviews, school options, local services and much more. Take a good look around your suburb at reviewproperty.com.au

0% chance of bad fish and chips 33 units *sold last year Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au 20 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

1 strip of waterfront houses

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

6 miles from the CBD

HONESTY INTEGRITY RESULTS 38 VICTORIA STREET WILLIAMSTOWN SOLD $2,350,000

1&2/58 JUNCTION STREET NEWPORT SOLD $980,000 each

47 PASCO STREET WILLIAMSTOWN SOLD $1,460,000

3 HOFFMAN TERRACE WILLIAMSTOWN SOLD $1,390,000

53 GINIFER AVENUE ALTONA NORTH SOLD $645,000

113 JOHN LISTON DRIVE NEWPORT SOLD $970,000

93 RAILWAY PLACE WILLIAMSTOWN SOLD $1,300,000

GUNNANDCO.COM.AU FORMERLY CENTURY21

SPRING IS COMING GET YOUR CAMPAIGN STARTED! FREE APPRAISALS WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? 

OUR TEAM ARE LOCAL RESIDENTS WHO KNOW THE LOCAL MARKET

 

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON ETHICAL DEALINGS WE WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH AN HONEST AND ACCURATE PROPERTY APPRAISAL



OUR FOCUS IS ON EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AT ALL TIMES

 

WE WILL GUIDE YOUR PROPERTY ACCURATELY



FULL WRITTEN MARKETING SUBMISSION WITH COMPARABLE SALES DATA

WE WILL ASSIST IN PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE WITH OUR PROVEN TRADES PEOPLE

9397 5555

49 Ferguson Street, Williamstown

Williams Real Estate Celebrating 33 Years In Business

Some things change over time... But our total commitment to our clients is unwavering.

Call 9397 2000 75-77 Ferguson Street Williamstown VIC 3016 If your property is exclusively listed with another agent, please disregard this notice.

Pick Green this Spring

Maribyrnongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading auctioneer Mark basilone Mark basilone Profile Mark Basilone is a local professional with a very strong passion for the Western suburbs and it shows with his high levels of enthusiasm and his no nonsense approach to real estate. My philosophy in real estate is very simple, I believe in treating all my clients in the same manner I would expect to be treated. Therefore, Mark excels at providing high levels of customer service and follow up along with constant feedback to all his clients whether they are vendors or potential purchasers. Mark as Director and Officer In Effective Control of Biggin and Scott Maribyrnong is also a polished auctioneer and he is fast developing a reputation for attracting large crowds to his auctions for his ability to extract every last cent for his vendors, and is Maribyrnongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting Auctioneer. Mark was also responsible for Marketing and selling the first property in the Waterford Green Estate Maribyrnong to eclipse the $1m mark.

1193931-RC31-15

If you are after an agent with a proven success rate, local knowledge, understanding, experience and professionalism then call Mark Basilone today.

10028121-01

When Mark manages to take a breather from the demands of real estate he enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter Isabella and son Alessandro. Mark is also fluent in the Italian language.

Wyndham 26 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

WYNDHAM 5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE

6% 5%

4.7%

4.4%

4.0%

Spring selling bonanza

3.5%

2.9%

2% 1%

Charlene Macaulay

Hoppers Crossing

It’s a seller’s market in Wyndham.

$500,000 for a rental property,” he said.

Data from by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) reveals Truganina was one of the top 20 growth suburbs in Victoria for the March quarter of 2015, with an 11.1 per cent jump on the December median house price to $411,000.

“Here, you can still get a property for $300,000 with good access to the city, especially now with the Regional Rail Link.”

Other REIV data shows Point Cook prices rose 5.7 per cent over the past quarter to record a median of $555,000.

Barry Plant Werribee director Donald McKillop said sales had increased by up to 35 per cent in the past year, with a lot of interest from investors.

David Lawson, director of Greg Hocking Lawson Partners, said the Wyndham property market had enjoyed a strong start to 2015, and forecasted a similarly strong Spring.

Mr McKillop said Hoppers Crossing was proving particularly popular among buyers due to its central location and the $370 million redevelopment of Pacific Werribee.

Mr Lawson said Wyndham properties had been attracting a lot of interest from Sydney buyers, who saw Wyndham as an affordable investment that could get a five per cent rental return.

“Hoppers Crossing has had a spike of late, but in saying that, all of the suburbs in the city of Wyndham are experiencing quite good growth and high demand.

“Even 20 or 30 kilometres out of Sydney, you’re still paying

WILLIAMSTOWN

“We’re seeing an influx of people purchasing land and residential properties right now.”

Point Cook

Suburb Hoppers Crossing

See

Point Cook Tarneit Truganina Werribee

339 houses sold last year

0% chance of a snowy day

YoY Change

$341,000

7.7%

$471,500

2.3%

p$390,000 ert y li $370,000 stin

See

1 strip of waterfront houses

2 story contemporary homes

pro

Median Price

$326,000

W Y N D H A M VA L E

0% chance of bad fish and chips

Traganina Werribee

Suburb watch

W Y N D H A M VA L E

33 units sold last year

Tarneit

pro

rty

6.9% 4.2%

gs16.7%

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD

4 child care centres

0% chance of a snowy day 339 houses sold last year * Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au * Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

2 story contemporary homes

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

4 child care centres STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 27

the business of success WERRIBEE 21 Watton Street 9731 8888

The Barry Plant Wyndham team understand that it’s not enough to simply sell or lease your property.

We’re dedicated to excellence in everything we do, which is why we’re thrilled to have been recognised as the best local franchise in the 2014 Wyndham City Business Awards. This is not an award specifically for real estate, but one that recognises high performance across all Wyndham businesses in a variety of industries. Our agency sets itself apart by delivering unsurpassed professionalism, superior service and spectacular results. For well over a decade, we’ve maintained our reputation for integrity and achievement in a highly competitive marketplace.

TARNEIT Shop 9, Wyndham Village Shopping Centre, 380 Sayers Road 8744 8888

THINKING OF SELLING THIS SPRING? There are few agents who understand real estate in Melbourne’s west as well as David Lawson. After growing up on this side of the city, David’s start in real estate came in 1984 and his career in property has been largely devoted to achieving outstanding results in Melbourne’s western suburbs. A consummate professional, David’s reputation is one of providing the highest quality service. He brings tremendous local insight and knowledge to each and every campaign on behalf of his clients. A highly respected auctioneer and accomplished negotiator, David ensures every sales result he and his team achieve is the very best possible.

Call David Lawson Today Director 0411 175 575 dlawson@greghocking.com.au

Werribee Office 9741 9666

Tarneit Office 9748 8222

GREG HOCKING LAWSON PARTNERS

The difference is experience. It costs no more. Greg Hocking

Bruce Warburton

Karina Lawrence

Darren Dodd

Founder

CEO

39 years

22 years

Head of Property Management

Senior Sales Consultant

Shona Messina

Vicky Birch

Richard Smith

Jerry Kizer

Administration Support

Senior Property Manager

Senior Sales Consultant

Sales Consultant

8 years

23 years

9 years

28 years

7 years

10 years

Jessica Wiebell

Mark Hambling

Bianca Gaetani

Julian Caldarera

Property Manager

Leasing Consultant

Sales Assistant

12 years

3 years

2 years

greghocking.com.au

Selling?

The ‘can do’ agents.....

Call 13 SOLD

Sweeney Werribee 23 Princes Highway Werribee 9974 0922

Sweeney Tarneit Shop 38 Tarneit Village SC Sayers Rd, Tarneit 9749 0010

www.sweeneyea.com.au

Brimbank &Northwest 34 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

BRIMBANK

5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE

Brimbank on the move

5.6%

5.2%

5.3%

4.5%

4% 3% 2%

Ben Cameron Sunshine has become one of Victoria’s most in-demand suburbs for first home buyers as the housing spotlight returns to Brimbank. Sunshine came in at number seven, according to the 2015 Westpac First Home Buyers Report. Westpac’s head of Retail Banking Product and Services Andy Kerr said Sunshine had been targeted by the state government as a developing area for infrastructure, housing and transport over the coming decades. “First home buyers are seeing the growth potential of northern suburbs like Sunshine, which are developing some of the benefits and amenities of inner Melbourne living with more space and without the price tag,” he said. St Albans agent Mr Benny Nguyen said prices in Sunshine had increased by about 20 per cent in the last 12 months. With offices in both Sunshine and St Albans, Mr Nguyen has witnessed the growth first hand, with Sunshine house prices jumping more than 10 per cent over the past year, according to CoreLogic RP Data. He said Brimbank City Council had played its part in lifting the area’s profile, with the newly completed Sunshine train station, the improvements to Anderson Road and the new Civic Centre all adding value.

St Albans consistently features in the top 10 most affordable suburbs according to REIV statistics, and with infrastructure development on the way like St Albans train station, Mr Nguyen expects more growth to come. “Considering our neighbouring suburb Sunshine has risen... St Albans is tipped to be the next growth corridor and we definitely have witnessed an increase in price in the last few months,” he said. “We have also seen some growth in the area of Kings Park in terms of price and would expect this area to continue due to the development of the new St Albans train station making driving access a lot more smoother once completed.” Barry Plant senior auctioneer Mr Jim Hatzimosis said 2015 had been the best in the company’s lifetime, with strong demand across Taylors Lakes, Taylors Hill, Hillside and “massive results” in St Albans. “It’s been a record breaker for volume and market prices being obtained,” he said. His advice to people wanting to break into the market was don’t just settle for “A Grade properties”.

WILLIAMSTOWN

“Don’t discount B and C Grade properties,” he said.

Keilor

Suburb

Median Price

YoY Change

Keilor

$680,000

3.8%

$383,000

2.7%

$486,500

10.0%

St AlbansS Sunshine

Taylors Lakes

KEILOR

3 bakeries

pro

rty $523,250 list

0% chance of a hurricane

1 strip of waterfront houses

3 bedroom double front brick veneer homes

5.0%

ing

“They might not have had much love, lack a bit of presentation and need a cosmetic upgrade, but it’s a good way to get into the market.”

0% chance of bad fish and chips

Suburb watch

KEILOR

33 units sold last year

St Albans Sunshine Taylors Lakes

See

pro

rty

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD

68 houses sold last year

3 bakeries chance of a hurricane * Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their 0% properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au * Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

3 bedroom double front brick veneer homes

68 houses sold last year

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 35

The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;can doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; agents..... We pride ourselves on understanding the real estate needs of every individual that seeks our services, and keeping you involved and informed along every step of the way is of paramount importance to us. The keen eye for detail shared by all Agents at Sweeney St Albans and Sunshine ensures we appreciate, value and highlight the many unique features of your property when selling. Our extensive and long-standing knowledge of the local area, combined with a genuine understanding of your requirements, makes certain we can find the perfect property for you when you are looking to buy.

Binh nguyen (Benny) MenDo Micevski

DanieLLe ForDhaM vincent Phu (son)

0417 349 884

Director

LicenceD estate agent

0426 878 080

senior saLes executive

0409 083 235

saLes executive

sang nguyen

Le Duong

cinDy tang

Duc Do

0403 127 367

0416 203 883

0419 377 387

0411 807 338

saLes executive Follow us on

LicenceD estate agent

0401 133 167

saLes executive

Sweeney Estate Agents St Albans and Sunshine would like to take this opportunity to illustrate the broad spectrum of services that our professional Rental department can offer you. As rental specialists, we understand the challenges you face as a Landlord, and we can assure you that our property management team will endeavour to deliver positive results with respect to your investment. We provide good old fashioned service and quality feedback, with support by the largest technology and management systems, which will take the stress out of owning an investment property

Property Management made easy anDy tang

LicenseD estate agent

Introducing Andy Tang, a Licensed Estate Agent with 14 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the real estate industry. Renowned for his honest and straight forward approach, Andy has helped maximising our landlordsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; investments returns over the years and has built up a great rent roll at our office along the way. Andy has developed a trusted name for protecting and managing the most valuable assets owned by his clients over the years. Andy knows all too well that being a considerate property manager means more than just performing occasional property inspections and sending out monthly reports. It takes a passion for the industry, a love of client interaction and a wealth of experience to deal with tricky situations that places Andy amongst the very best in the area.

kathy nguyen

Director and Property Manager Kathy Nguyen is a Director and Property Manager of Team Sweeney St Albans & Sunshine with over 10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in real estate. Highly motivated with attention to detail and a professional approach has provided Kathy a long list of very happy landlords over the years.

With an honest and professional approach to property management, Kathy ensures that her clients are well informed through the leasing and management of their investment properties. At Sweeney Estate Agents St Albans and Sunshine our rental properties are always in HIGH demand. Our application process is of the highest standard. we look at all aspects of the application in making sure the tenants we are putting forward will maintain your property and pay rental monies on time and in advance. Sweeney Estate Agents provide all property managers with the relevant knowledge and training so all aspects of property management are covered and landlords are at ease knowing their investment is well looked after. If you would like further information in regards to property management and our office please do not hesitate to contact us, St Albans 9366 8188 or Sunshine 9311 6884

www.sweeneyea.com.au

BELLS

EST 1935

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t become the most trusted name in real estate overnight. For over 80 years we have built our reputation on integrity and attention to detail. To discuss your real estate needs contact the areas most experienced team.

Sunshine 9300 9000

Deer Park 9363 9888 bellsrealestate.com.au

Sydenham 9449 4288

The only way to do great work is to love what you do. Steve Jobs

Think Small...

When you want an agent who takes care of every little detail.

Caroline Springs

9307 4000

Deer Park

9307 4488

St Albans

9367 7044

Sunshine

8326 8888

Taylors Lakes

9390 8333

Think

Big... When it absolutely, positively has to be a better result!

Rely on our red carpet experience

test time

3 out of 4 people use newspapers when looking for property

Selling your property? Add Star Weekly print to your domain.com.au marketing campaign and reach an extra 159,000 potential property seekers. It’s a proven winning formula to create greater impact and help you sell your property for more.

NEWS

There has never been a better time to advertise with print.

domain.com.au Source: “Three out of four” Millward Brown study, May 2014. Emma™ conducted by Ipsos MediaCT, 12 months ending June 2015, Nielsen Online Ratings June 2015, people 14+.

DM14687

Contact your real estate agent today

Melton &Moorabool i.Conveyancing.co

Fiona Boothey is a fully licensed conveyancer with over 10 years’ experience. Fiona will handle your transaction from beginning to end, keeping you informed throughout the process and act in your best interest at all times. You can rest assured that you will be provided with an efficient, professional, stress free experience with the highest level of customer service. Matthew Barber has lived in Melton for all his life. Matthew is a genuine local expert with a very broad knowledge of the area and has built up a very strong network. Daniella Bartolo has recently joined the team to help assist with the daily running of the office. Daniella has a positive and happy nature and is a very likeable and approachable person. She is also extremely keen to focus her career ambitions with the company. She is an ideal addition to the team. Contact our office today for an obligation free quote You will be quoted a low fixed price for your conveyancing with no hidden costs. We are ready to help you with your purchase or sale. We have the skills and experience to give you peace of mind.

Call us today Ph: 03 9747 3300 Fax: 8610 0063 • fiona@iconveyancingco.com.au • 23 Wallace Square Melton Vic 3337 44 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

1194661-LB33-15 10030081-01

Making buying & selling easy Why Choose i.Conveyancing.co

MELTON & MOORABOOL 5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE

5.6%

Affordability still the key

5.5%

5% 4%

4.0%

3.4%

3.2%

Esther Lauaki

3% 2%

A few million-dollar house sales spiked Melton’s property market data in recent months but, according to real estate agents, the suburb is still among Melbourne’s most affordable pockets to buy. Parts of Caroline Springs and Burnside Heights recorded sales of up to $1.6 million in June leaving its median house price of $243,750 in the dust. But there are still plenty of bargain buys, according to Sweeney Estate Agents Melton director Garry Gale. “Melton offers value for money in any of its suburbs,” he said.

Melton become a favourable place to reside. To get people out there the land was cheap and there was plenty of it.” One agent said the suburb’s affordability factor came down to “simple economics”. “There is an oversupply of land and that keeps the prices from inflating too quickly,” he said.

Bacchus Marsh

“Melton does not have the geographical boundaries that other area’s have which means it is able to expand in nearly all directions.”

Suburb watch

“They all have their positives. The best area to buy in [depend on an] individual assessment of a buyer’s requirements, such as land size, age of the home, location to schools and amenities.

He also believed buyers look for properties in the outer west to get the biggest bang for their buck. “Bigger properties on larger than average land sizes have been the best performers with supply of larger lots running out,” he said.

“The most common elements that buyers ask for are four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double brick garage - these are predominantly found in newer homes in Brookfield, West Melton and Kurunjang.”

Another drawcard for families relocating to the west is the vast improvements to amenities and infrastructure with the likes of Palmerston Street, Brooklyn Road and Greigs Road all undergoing refurbishments to ease traffic in the area.

The area’s long-held reputation for affordable house was primarily because of its location, Mr Gale said.

“Melton is a great area to live in, offers one of the best rental yields in Melbourne and over the long term has good capital growth. With planned infrastructure like the outer metro ring road and projected doubling of the population, the City of Melton has a bright future,” he said.

“In the past Melton was seen to be too far out, with paddocks and farms taking up most of the real estate... during the early days the lack of amenities and public transport didn’t help

WILLIAMSTOWN

Caroline Kurunjang Melton Springs

Median Price

YoY Change

Bacchus Marsh

$397,000

6.7%

Caroline Springs Se

$455,000

4.8%

Kurunjang Melton

3 houses sold last year

3 parks

rop$286,750 ert y li $257,000 stin g

Melton West West

1 strip of waterfront houses 3 bedroom brick houses

$315,000

See

ROCKBANK

0% chance of bad fish and chips

Suburb

ROCKBANK

33 units sold last year

Melton West

pro

rty

-2.1% 3.7%

s1-2.3%

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD 5 restaurants nearby

3 parks houses sold last year * Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

* Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

3 bedroom brick houses

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

5 restaurants nearby STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 45

www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/melton

You are in good hands with Meltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest established agent. With recent sales success and a high level of buyer enquiry, enquir there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a better time to be selling.

Call today to arrange your free no obligation market appraisal 9743 6000 To view our full list of properties for sale, visit us at the office 307-309 High St, Melton or go to www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/melton

9743 6000

307 - 309 High Street Melton

6/7 Raymond street Melton south

6/63 staughton street Melton south

ExcEEdEd ownERs ExpEctatIons 4 Sold at Auction 4 Sold well above reserve 4 Less fuss 4 Big Crowds 4 83% clearance rate with Raine & Horne why wouldn’t you consider auction with the area’s leading agent? Raine & Horne Melton 9743 6866 Raine&Horne Melton

9743 6866 I rh.com.au/melton

The ‘can do’ agents..... We pride ourselves on understanding the real estate needs of every individual that seeks our services, and keeping you involved and informed along every step of the way is of paramount importance to us. The keen eye for detail shared by all Agents at Sweeney Melton ensures we appreciate, value and highlight the many unique features of your property when selling. Our extensive and long-standing knowledge of the local area, combined with a genuine understanding of your requirements, makes certain we can find the perfect property for you when you are looking to buy. Follow us on

We at Sweeney Estate Agents Melton are a well-established team of highly skilled professionals, whose first and foremost goal is to provide you with an exemplary level of customer care. Whether buying or selling a home with us, you can rest assured that we are committed to and are constantly working on your behalf, to exceed all of your expectations.

DaViD How

Garry Gale

lee Gonera

0419 314 103

0419 523 559

0407 310 054

licensed estate agent

Sales executive

reCently SolD

67 longtree Dve, Melton west SOLD $380,000

47 Croxton Dve, Kurunjang SOLD $820,000

6 trentham ave, eynesbury SOLD $440,000

When you are ready to experience the

Sweeney “Can-Do” difference

do not hesitate to call our office on 9743 9743

Sweeney Estate Agents Melton would like to take this opportunity to illustrate the broad spectrum of services that our professional Rental department can offer you. As rental specialists, we understand the challenges you face as a Landlord, and we can assure you that our property management team will endeavour to deliver positive results with respect to your investment. We provide good old fashioned service and quality feedback, with support by the largest technology and management systems, which will take the stress out of owning an investment property

Property Management made easy!! KriSti GilCriSt Senior Property Manager Kristi has worked in the Real Estate Industry in Melton for the past 13 years and the last 10 years as a Property manager. This together with her honest and straight forward communication will ensure you peace of mind and the maximum return on your investment. She strives to exceed expectations with exceptional market knowledge and a strong eye for details ensuring her clients are comfortable and informed throughout the leasing and management.

Hayley How assistant Property Manager Hayley has been a member of the Sweeney team since late 2010, her bubbly personality and charisma attracts clients and makes them feel welcome when they call or drop by the office. She oversees the running of the front of office and is a vital part of assisting our sales agents with all their administration needs as well as being an assistant property manager; she feels a great sense of satisfaction in problem solving and various other tasks which is a vital trait to have in the real estate industry. At Sweeney Estate Agents Melton our rental properties are always in HIGH demand. Our application process is of the highest standard. we look at all aspects of the application in making sure the tenants we are putting forward will maintain your property and pay rental monies on time and in advance.

217 Botanica Springs Blvd 2 westmill Vista LEASED $410 per week

LEASED $290 per week

48 Bennella ave

LEASED $420 per week

Sweeney Estate Agents provide all property managers with the relevant knowledge and training so all aspects of property management are covered and landlords are at ease knowing their investment is well looked after. If you would like further information in regards to property management and our office please do not hesitate to contact us on 03 9743 9743

www.sweeneyea.com.au

Formerly PRD Jens Gaunt

Celebrating 10 Years

ask a local.... al r melton om au

With over 100 years combined experience in Sales and Property management

of outstanding Service in Melton

treet

elton

ryder real estate

Spring is just around the corner with the sun shining and flowers in bloom, traditionally now is the best time to sell! If you are wanting the best real estate agents to help you buy, sell or manage your rental property, then look no further, call Professionals Ryder Real Estate today, the leaders in customer service.. 319 High Street, Melton, 3337 www.ryderrealestate.com.au

Ph: 9743 6400

Jayson Ryder 0417 341 755 I Kirsteen Ryder 0451 057 772 I Jarrod Cook 0407 863 398 I Mark Mordaunt 0407 671 997

3 out of 4 people use newspapers when looking for property

NEWS

There has never been a better time to advertise with print.

domain.com.au Source: “Three out of four” Millward Brown study, May 2014. Emma™ conducted by Ipsos MediaCT, 12 months ending June 2015, Nielsen Online Ratings June 2015, people 14+.

DM14687

Contact your real estate agent today

Sunbury

&Macedon Ranges NOT JUST TIMBER! FOR ALL OF YOUR BUILDING & FENCING NEEDS Build it Right Build it Once Build it with Frost’s 1194719-CG33-15

54 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

From the front gate to the back fence, we’ve got you covered 8 Sawmill Lane

FROST’S SAWMILL Monegeetta Timber & Building Supplies PTY LTD

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm & Sat 8.30am-2.30pm

5428 5156

SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES 5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE 11%

Lifestyle a drawcard

11.3%

10% 9%

8.7%

8.4%

7.3% Matt Crossman Buyers looking to break into the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges property market can expect plenty of competition this spring with low interest rates, relatively cheap prices and a spectacular natural environment fuelling interest.

40-year career. ‘‘It’s largely the attractiveness of the Macedon Ranges,’’ she says.

Agents say Melbourne’s soaring prices are having a flow-on effect, with many people pleasantly surprised to discover how far their property dollar can go just past the airport.

Ms Gladman says roughly 60 per cent of recent purchases involved people from the city. ‘‘The prospects of it continuing into spring is positive. It will go on for however long the boom in Melbourne continues.’’

Lifestyle has also been a major factor in drawing people from suburbs like Ascot Vale, Essendon and even growth areas like Craigieburn. Dunlop Real Estate director John Dunlop says the Sunbury market has been extremely active and he expects the trend to continue. ‘‘Not only are interest rates very low, but also there’s plenty of value here,’’ Mr Dunlop says. ‘‘Plenty of people are wanting to move to the area because it offers a better lifestyle.’’ Many locals are also seizing the opportunity to upgrade, buying newer or larger properties on more land. ‘‘We’ve been extremely busy in Sunbury, particularly at the cheaper end of the market, and also in Romsey with new estates like Lomandra coming on. ‘‘We’re selling three or four blocks a week ... they’re sort of doubling the land and halving the price.’’ Joan Gladman, director of Woodend’s Joan Gladman Real Estate, says the agency has enjoyed the best winter of her

‘‘Being able to walk to the train station and to the shops for $220,000 is attractive, especially in a town like Woodend.

3% 2% 1% Gisborne Kyneton Mount Sunbury Macedon

‘‘You can buy blocks for that price in Gisborne, but you’re much further out.’’

Suburb

Median Price

YoY Change

RT Edgar Macedon Ranges director Rick Lander says activity in Gisborne has largely come from Melbourne’s inner north-west.

Gisborne

$515,000

7.0%

‘‘We’re getting a lot of people from places like Ascot Vale and Essendon,’’ he says. ‘‘It’s due to lifestyle, that’s for sure, and it’s right across the board.

$435,000

4.6%

Mount Macedon rop$710,000 Sunbury

y li $370,000 s

30.0% 2.0%

Woodend

$565,000

WILLIAMSTOWN

‘‘We had someone buy for $1.2 million recently. They were just reading their local paper and said gee, look what we can get for our money up there.”

0% chance of bad fish and chips 4 bedroom homes

See

Kyneton

MACEDON

3 schools nearby

Woodend

Suburb watch

MACEDON

33 units sold last year

6% 5% 4%

5.2%

‘‘Also, with Macedon Ranges council capping growth in each of the townships, it increases the drive for people to get in.’’

Ms Gladman says Woodend offers tremendous value, with land in Edgewood estate going cheap.

1 strip of waterfront houses

4km cycling tracks at Macedon Regional Park

ert

See

pro

ting

rty

s17.4%

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD $500,000 median house price

3 schools nearby

4 bedroom homes

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

4km cycling tracks at Macedon Regional Park

$500,000 median house

* Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 55

Northern 62 STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE

NORTHERN 5 YEAR ANNUAL CHANGE 6%

6.6%

Demand to stay strong

3.8%

3.5%

3.0% Lexi Cottee

3% 2%

Demand for houses in Melbourne’s outer north is expected to remain strong in 2015 among buyers looking for space and affordability. The Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s chief executive Enzo Raimondo said the outer suburbs continue to offer good buying opportunities, especially for first time buyers and families, with annual price growth of between two and five per cent. “Melbourne’s northern suburbs remain some of the city’s most affordable and appeal to buyers looking for space. Middle-ring suburbs in particular are seeing good growth as buyers are priced out of inner-suburbs,” Mr Raimondo said. “Larger homes across Melbourne are seeing the highest capital growth with this trend also being reflected in the city’s middle and outer northern suburbs.” According to REIV figures, in the 12 months until the end of March, across Melbourne three-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom houses showed the highest growth, with median prices up by 9.9 and 9.4 per cent respectively. Suburbs in Melbourne’s north are reflecting this trend with four-bedroom houses in South Morang increasing 6.1 per cent over the year to a March 2015 median price of $473,500.

Larger homes in Epping also saw capital growth of around five per cent with three-bedroom units increasing 4.9 per cent over the year to a March median price of $340,950, while four-bedroom houses in the suburb rose 4.7 per cent to a median of $450,000. Harcouts Mill Park/South Morang director and auctioneer Josh Allison predicts a solid market for the remainder of the year. “We are looking at an extremely hot market as the sheer demand is outweighing supply,” Mr Allison said. “Coupled with the higher than normal interest levels from buyers – due to low interest rates, buyers grants and stamp duty reductions – we are going to see an amazing market not just over the next six months but for the next 24 months.” Barry Plant Gladstone Park director Nick Pugliese said low interest rates and a limited supply of housing stock in the area would make for a competitive market in the second half of the year.

WILLIAMSTOWN

Ziya Koksal, a senior partner at Melbourne Real Estate Agent’s Roxburgh Park office, named Broadmeadows, Dallas, Gladstone Park and Westmeadows as the north’s next “hot spots”.

Bundoora Craigieburn Epping

Suburb

Median Price

YoY Change

BundooraS

$558,000

9.3%

$392,000

4.9%

e Craigieburn e Epping Roxburgh Park Thomastown

$363,500 median house price

0% chance of a hurricane

1 strip of waterfront houses 7 level apartment blocks

pro

p$391,500 ert y li $405,000 stin $414,000

See

EPPING

0% chance of bad fish and chips

Suburb watch

EPPING

33 units sold last year

Roxburgh Thomastown Park

pro

rty

7.0% 2.1%

gs16.5%

st*

list

ing

st*

6 miles from the CBD 6 Italian restaurants

,500 median house price

0% chance of a hurricane

* Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

7 level apartment blocks

.com.au

.com.au Take a good look around

6 Italian restaurants

* Some of Melbourne’s leading Real Estate Agents list their properties 1st on reviewproperty.com.au

STARWEEKLY \ SPRING PROPERTY GUIDE 63

www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/glenroy

There is a shortage of homes on the market, could yours be the next one we sell?

Position yourself alongside the industry leaders! Realise your tomorrow, today, with Stockdale & Leggo Glenroy

9306 0422

201 Glenroy Road Glenroy

www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/gladstonepark www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/craigieburn

Two Offices - One Great Team! Providing the right real estate advice throughout Hume

When you appoint Stockdale & Leggo Gladstone Park & Craigieburn to sell or manage your valuable property, you get the expertise and professionalism that only comes with over 130 years of combined experience that our team offers.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the years behind us that put us light years ahead of the rest.

9335 5155

Shop 158 , Gladstone Park Shopping Centre, Gladstone Park

9303 8222

38/10 Craigieburn Rd, Craigieburn

With Ray White Craigieburn You Get All Of Us

Carlo Gargano

Jim Overend

carlo.gargano@raywhite.com

jim.overend@raywhite.com

• City of Hume’s most recognised Real Estate agent

• A local resident with over 26 years of local knowledge

• Over 23 years real estate experience in the Hume area

• The desire and energy dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome

0412 342 550

• Director of one of the largest Real Estate offices in the area • Sold over $22 million worth of real estate in the past 12 months

0408 305 588

• Being able to understand that the key ingredient to customer service is “helping people” • The ability to listen

Daniel Diamantopoulos

Domenic Campisi

daniel.diamantopoulos@raywhite.com

domenic.campisi@raywhite.com

• Achieving some of the areas highest prices

• Bright & Personable

0412 102 744

0412 777 372

• 11 years experience & local knowledge

• Strong passion for success & achievement

• Dedicated to delivering first class service

• Highly motivated & enthusiastic.

• Highly energetic Auctioneer

• Dedicated to help achieve clients goals.

Rocco Di Battista

Trish Orrico

rocco.dibattista@raywhite.com

trish.orrico@raywhite.com

• Dedication, Honesty & Passionate

• Intimate knowledge of the area being a local resident

• 25 years of Local experience and knowledge

• Honest, approachable and a friendly face you can count on.

• Involved in the local community and always willing to lend a hand

• 20 years of sales and marketing experience

0425 728 002

• Recognized as one of the areas leading agents

0423 336 636

• Genuine passion for helping clients achieve their dreams

LIST WITH HARCOURTS Succeed with Harcourts

Epping  Lalor  Mill Park South Morang  Thomastown  Wollert

767 High Street Epping Ph: 9401 1117

219 High Street Thomastown Ph: 9465 7766

510 Plenty Road Mill Park Ph: 9436 6888

from â&#x20AC;&#x153; â&#x20AC;? hello to sold

Garages & Sheds DIRECT FROM MANUFACTURER

www.eurekagarages.com.au • Industrial Factories • Farm Machinery Sheds • Carports & Garages • Barns • Workshops • Lofty Garages • All Products Made To Order

ars

Servicing Victoria for over 30 ye

9314 1245

1195395-HM34-15 10028724-01

Fax: 9314 6640

100% Australian Owned

Come & Visit Our Display Yard at: 208 Fairbairn Rd Sunshine West